mrsdmf72205

Landon's Story

2009-10-28T06:59:00.000-07:00

Most of you don't know the entire story of our newest baby. His story begins long before we even dreamed of him. It begins on December 25, 2007, when actually, I was pregnant with Hannah! That very evening my dad asked my sister and I to come upstairs with him to his bedroom where he told us the horrific news that his doctor found a mass in his lung and they were suspecting cancer. I'll never forget that devastating night. Lo and behold, my dad passed away on August 17, 2008.
The following Christmas season was very dreary for me. I wasn't looking forward to it at all because just one year prior it was when we found out my dad was sick, and now, I had to celebrate my first Christmas without him. God intervened on my behalf. It was Christmas day 2008 that we discovered we were expecting again! Boy, did that ever change the dreary season for me! I was super excited and Christmas now had a different feeling...it wasn't a sad memory anymore, but a happy and exciting memory that replaced the old feeling I had just one year prior! There's more...I was due to have the baby at the beginning of September, right between my dad's death anniversary, August 17, and my dad's Birthday, September 18. Once again, we chose not to find out the gender of the baby. We picked out a girl's name, but still had "Landon Joseph" as our boy's name from when we first found out my dad was sick. ("Joseph" after my dad, Joseph Lashomb.)
I was 41+1 weeks pregnant when my water broke on September 17, and finally, after a few obstacles we stumbled upon throughout labor, Landon, was born via emergency C-Section on September 18...yes, my dad's Birthday!!! How exciting it was that we had a baby boy who was to be named after my dad, but just so happened to be born on my dad's Birthday as well!!! God is so good! The story doesn't end here.
When we arrived home after our hospital stay, there was a congratulations card in the mailbox from my grandfather, whom I hadn't spoken to since shortly after my dad's passing. Needless to say, my grandfather and I are now on speaking terms again, all because of the miracle of Landon.
I don't believe in irony or coincidence. I believe all things happen for a reason in God's perfect timing. God blessed me with Landon to heal my broken heart and boy, did he ever! All three of my children are very special to me, each in their own way. They all hold a very dear place in my heart; Landon holds my broken heart in one piece!:)

Long Over-due!

2009-06-02T08:21:00.000-07:00

Here are some of my favorite pictures taken over the past two months! Enjoy!

A few pics of Hannah's 1st Birthday:

She LOVED the homemade spaghetti and meatballs that my mom and I made!

Yes, we had yet ANOTHER Elmo party at our house!

Frosting would make a GREAT hair gel, believe me!

Caleb posing for a quick pic!

Easter 2009:

Running around during the Egg Hunt.

Hannah even found a few eggs!

They really enjoyed their Easter baskets!

Cousins!

Mommy's little man

Daddy's boy

Our little princess!

Family photo- April 12, 2009

Caleb and Uncle Justin

And now for a couple videos:

Caleb singing "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star"

Hannah Obeying Commands

Happy 1st Birthday, Hannah!

2009-04-10T04:32:00.000-07:00

Hannah Orinda-Marie, My Little Love Bug

-has the most kissable cheeks a baby could ever have
-is always happy to see a familiar face
-has the most beautiful smile that will melt your heart
-blows the sweetest kisses, usually with just her index finger
-pats your back while giving the tightest hug possible
-loves to cuddle up close, especially with Mommy
-adores her Daddy and big brother, Caleb
-completes our little family of four!

HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY, HANNAH!!! WE LOVE YOU SOOOOO MUCH!!!

Love always,
Mommy, Daddy, and Caleb

A heavy heart

2009-03-02T07:56:00.000-08:00

Lately, I've felt like such a failure...as a wife, as a mom, as a homemaker. The list could go on, but those are the things I strive to be the best at because they mean so much to me. These feelings arose when I reflected back on past circumstances...like when I should have spoke in a nicer manner to my husband, like when I shouldn't have hollered at Caleb, like when I should have swept the floors instead of putting if off until tomorrow. I know God doesn't want me feeling this way and I'm not a failure in His eyes. I've had this heavy burden on my heart that I just need more of Him and that's been my heart's cry all week. I've been singing this song over and over as my constant prayer and reminder that He's my strength and rock, and with Him, I'm not a failure. He's all I need to succeed at everything He's called me to do. I need You more than anything, Jesus...more of You and less of me.

I Need You More- Lindell Cooley
I need You more
More than yesterday
I need You Lord
More than words can say
I need You more
Than ever before
I need You Lord
I need You Lord

More than the air I breathe
More than the song I sing
More than the next heartbeat
More than anything
And Lord as time goes by
I'll be by Your side
Cause I never want to go back
To my old life

Drum roll, please!

2009-01-21T08:38:00.000-08:00

We're proud to announce that we're...

Christmas 2008

2009-01-11T14:18:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas 2008 Family Photo

Hannah's First Christmas

Anxiously opening presents

Dressed up and ready to go!

Sweet cousins

Playing with family
Hannah with Grandma

Christmas pose taken by my cousin at her house (Thanks Heather!)

Another great picture taken by Heather! She should definitely be a photographer, don't ya think???

And last but not least:

My surprise Christmas present made by my husband! (And just so you know, these pictures do not do it any justice to how beautiful it actually is!!!)

That's right! My very own VANITY!!! (Thanks, Babe!;-))

What We've Been Up To This Christmas Season

2008-12-17T09:33:00.000-08:00

We've thoroughly enjoyed the Christmas season thus far and look forward to the upcoming things we have planned for Christmas and the New Year. Below are some pictures of our most recent happenings. Hope you enjoy!

12/12/08 at our Church's Winter Wonderland Party:

My mom, sister and niece on the horse-drawn sleigh ride

On the sleigh ride

12/13/08:

Excited to decorate our Christmas tree

Contently playing while we're decorating

Handing Daddy ornaments

Placing the angel on top

Helping with the decorations

Miscellaneous Pictures:

12/10/08
Eight Months Old

Happily Playing Patty Cake Together

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T04:58:00.000-08:00

May you enjoy this special holiday being thankful for all the many blessings the Lord has given to you! As Christians, we have so much to be thankful for! Have a great day!:-)

Election Results

2008-11-05T04:07:00.000-08:00

My heart breaks for the immorality of this country. The polls showed it all...

Oh Lord, in this ever-changing and corrupt world, I just cling to You even more!

Happy 2nd Birthday, Caleb!

2008-10-26T18:25:00.000-07:00

Happy 2nd Birthday, Caleb! We love you so much! xoxoxoxo

One hour old
10/26/06

Two years old
10/26/08

Potty training blooper...

2008-10-02T11:05:00.000-07:00

Just before laying Caleb down for his nap, I put him on the potty. He sat there, and of course I sat there with him, and no such luck. Then Hannah started crying in the other room, so I told Caleb to stay there while mommy went to get Hannah. Low and behold, while heading back into the bathroom to check on Caleb's progress, he meets me at the bathroom door, standing over a decent-sized puddle. I immediately scolded him and told him that he's supposed to pee on the potty and not on the floor. That's when he yelled at me, which resulted in me spanking him for yelling at me. When I went back into the bathroom to get his pants, I noticed that he had peed in his potty too! When I saw that, I realized that he probably came running to find me when he started peeing on the potty which result in the accident on the floor, which is why he yelled at me when I scolded him. I feel like such an awful mom at times...

Everything a mom says in a 24-hour period...

2008-09-19T21:18:00.000-07:00

You must see this video! Very cute and surprisingly accurate! You can tell it was definitely written by a true mom! Click below to view!

http://www.truveo.com/william-tell-overature-wmv/id/305921222

Happy Birthday, Dad!

2008-09-18T13:35:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday, Dad! May this be your best birthday ever as you rejoice with the angels around the heavenly throne! You're missed more than words could ever express, especially today! We love you, Dad!

Our five-month old princess...

2008-09-11T13:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, our little girl turned five months old! How is that even possible!? It seems like we just brought her home from the hospital! Hannah brings so much joy to my life and has truly helped me through this difficult time since my Dad's passing. I thank God for her everyday. I don't know what I'd do without her!

Hannah Orinda-Marie
9/10/08
Five months old

How hard it's been...

2008-08-28T08:17:00.000-07:00

How hard these last few months have been! I'm so grateful to have spent so much time with my dad especially since he was diagnosed with lung cancer back in January, but it was so difficult to watch him become sicker and sicker with each passing day. You never knew what to expect with each visit from day to day. I'm shocked at how fast his disease progressed.
This morning while making peanut butter toast for Caleb's breakfast, all of a sudden the kitchen light went out and the dishwasher stopped working. My first thought was to call Dad since he was an electrician...unfortunately, that's wasn't possible. There are so many times in a day that I'll pick up the phone to check and see how my dad is feeling or to tell him about something cute that Caleb had done, but that's also impossible. Caleb is constantly asking for Papa and wanting to go visit him...once again, impossible.
The other day at church, we sang the song How Can I Keep from Singing. At times I feel angry with God for taking my dad away from me at such a young age, but during that song it dawned on me that I just can't keep from singing His praise. It's because of God's love for us that I will be able to see my dad again. I continually thank God for his mercy and kindness in not letting my dad suffer for very long. It's truly a blessing that his disease progressed so quickly to prevent unnecessary pain and suffering. God is so good!

Dad...

2008-08-19T04:59:00.000-07:00

Taken on August 9, 2008 at the Lashomb Family ReunionSeptember 18, 1954-August 17, 2008

Always in our thoughts and forever in our hearts! You are missed greatly! We love you, Dad!

Three amazing years...

2008-07-22T10:11:00.000-07:00

...and looking forward to many more!

David's Vacation

2008-07-17T12:37:00.001-07:00

We are so blessed that David works for such wonderful people who gave him a week off from work plus the 4th of July! We had an awesome time as a family while he was on vacation! Those 10 days went by so quickly! It was so nice having him around and the kids enjoyed it too! We went camping on Wellesley Island with my in-laws for three nights, which added to the fun. David returned to work on Monday, so now we're re-adjusting to it being just the three of us at home during the day again. Below are some memories we made during David's vacation. Hope you enjoy!

At the Fourth of July parade.

"That was one great parade!"

Our American Princess!

Our Fourth of July cuties!

Enjoying time with Daddy!

Uncle Josh watching the kids while we were setting up our campsite (and taking this quick pic obviously!).

David, pitching our tent.

Waiting patiently in her carseat.

Posing on the cooler.

Driving with Grandpa.

Happily snuggled up in her carseat.

Counting with Grandma.

Chillin' with Grandpa.

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And now for some miscellaneous pictures:

Playing on her toy boat.

Cuddling with her blankie.
Loves having his picture taken (in case you couldn't tell!).

Hannah and Nanny.

Papa and his girl.

Update

2008-07-01T11:49:00.000-07:00

Life has been so busy lately. It's definitely a fun-busy though! I love being a mommy of two little ones! I wouldn't want it any other way! Hannah is so cute...constantly cooing and smiling at us! It's the sweetest thing to see her give Caleb a HUGE grin first thing in the morning! You can just see the love she has for him in her eyes, and likewise in his eyes! When she fusses and I'm in the middle of something like loading the washing machine, Caleb will bring her the pacifier or rattle to calm her down! You should see him play peekaboo with her...it's the cutest thing ever! I'm sorry, I don't mean to ramble and boast about my children, but they're my life! Below you will find pictures of our most recent days. Hope you enjoy!

"Cheeeeese!"

Posing for a picture while washing his hair.

Baby Blue Eyes!

I finally captured a smile, and boy, was it a big one!

Me and my girl!

Smiling at Daddy.

"I suppose I can stop to smile for a quick pic!"

"Am I cute or what?!"

Daddy's girl!

Mama's little man!

One Month Old, Lots of Firsts, and Misc. Pictures!

2008-05-13T05:47:00.000-07:00

I know this post is a little late, but Hannah turned one month old on Saturday. Where does the time go? It seems like we just brought her home from the hospital! To say the least, she's a perfect baby! Below are the stats on our baby girl:
-is extremely strong and has been picking her head up since she was born.
-nurses every 3-4 hours and sometimes even goes 5 hours during the night (yay!).
-is a tummy-sleeper.
-sleeps best when Caleb is being as loud as possible (don't ask me how that works!).
-has the biggest gummy grins when dreaming!
-gained 1 pound since leaving the hospital and going to her first check-up just 5 days later!
-has completely outgrown all her newborn clothing
-rarely cries.
-absolutely loves to be held upright on just about anyone's shoulder.
-loves being carried around in the Snuggli.
-has the most kissable cheeks I've ever seen!

Hannah
5/10/08
One Month Old

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Now for all the "firsts" that have occurred over the past month:

Caleb received his first haircut on April 20, 2008. Well, I'm not sure if you can actually consider it his "first haircut". Daddy just trimmed the very back of his hair, but I was able to salvage a lock to put in his baby book!

Hannah had her first bath on April 22, 2008, and boy, did she HATE it!

Caleb sat on his new potty chair for the first time on May 5, 2008, but unfortunately nothing happened. We're still working on this one!

Hannah smiled for the first time on May 11, 2008 after Daddy tickled her chin! It was adorable! Unfortunately, we don't have a picture of it though!

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Now for some random pictures!

Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed!

Caleb helping Daddy put together his new potty chair!

A picture that Caleb insisted on! (taken by me while in the picture)

Caleb checking on his baby sister.

Proud big brother!

Wide awake!

Our sleeping angel!

Cousins!
(Annabelle Dowling and Caleb)
Caleb: "Do I really have to smile, Mom!?"

Hannah Orinda-Marie

2008-04-16T10:09:00.000-07:00

I'm sure most of you have already heard by now, but I'll confirm the news for you. Our beautiful, little Hannah Orinda-Marie arrived on Thursday, April 10, 2008 at 8:27 AM. She weighed 5 lbs 12 oz and measured 19 inches in length. My water broke on Wednesday at 11:40 PM while David and I were watching the new DVD release, The Water Horse (talk about the power of suggestion!). On our way to the hospital, we got pulled over by a Trooper for speeding, but luckily he let us go when he realized that I truly was in labor! It was definitely a memorable night!

Caleb is adjusting really well. He has his jealous moments, but is slowly accepting of his new little sister. Whenever she stirs, he makes sure to get our attention to tend to her. He loves to "pet" her little head, and it's so adorable to watch him love on her.

Below are some pictures of our most recent days:

Hannah Orinda-Marie

April 10, 2008

Mommy's little angel

Peacefully sleeping

Daddy's little girl

Mammy (Grandma Orinda Lashomb) whom Hannah is named after

Our dear friend, Lisa, who came to see us in the hospital

April 12, 2008
First day home

Proud big brother

Our little, but growing, family!

Ouch...

2008-04-01T16:42:00.000-07:00

Is it possible for a bellybutton to explode from being super stretched???...I'm afraid mine is on the verge of explosion...:-/

Labor...or so we thought!

2008-03-30T12:52:00.001-07:00

I awoke Friday at 2:30 AM with sweats, contractions, and intestinal cramps. After laying there for nearly two hours with worsening contractions, I decided to wake David up who insisted on timing the contractions for 30 minutes as instructed by my doctor. After having 6 long and hard contractions in 30 minutes, I decided to get up and get things ready to leave for the hospital and do some last minute cleaning. Surprisingly enough, the contractions weren't getting any worse once I started moving around as I thought they should have to be in true labor. Bummer! All day on Friday, I had strong contractions, but they weren't consistent enough to go to the hospital. So here we are, still waiting for this little one to arrive! I know, I know, I still have 2 1/2 weeks to go until my estimated due date, but I'm very anxious to meet our new little bundle of joy! (Not to mention, I've been at 2 cm and over 50% effaced since March 20th! I thought for sure I'd have this baby by now! Oh well, it's all in His perfect timing!)

I'll keep you posted with any new happenings!

Easter 2008

2008-03-29T13:42:00.001-07:00

Our baskets

He insisted on putting on his own shades!

Caleb and Mammy (Grandma Lashomb)

Rolling around and being silly at Mammy's house

Our little man at Grandma and Grandpa's house for Easter dinner

Playing with his new favorite toy

Relaxing after a filling dinner of crackers and biscuits (that's all he would eat!)

Our little family

Photogenic

2008-03-12T19:50:00.000-07:00

Caleb has always been a ham, but every time we would get the camera out, he would stop whatever cute thing he was doing...until recently. Now, he will take me over to where our camera is located, put on his "cutesy face" and point while saying "ah ah ah" until I pick up the camera and take his picture. He just loves having his picture taken and even poses for each one! Here are the latest!

"I just love having my picture taken!"

"I'm ready to be pulled around, Mom!"

"What's next on our To-Do list?"

"Cheeeeeese!"

"Is this a big enough smile?!"

Please Pray...

2008-02-20T08:18:00.001-08:00

God is so good! He is slowly bringing my broken family back together, He is opening eyes that have needed to be opened for awhile, He is healing broken hearts and past hurts, and He is giving peace to those who are seeking it! The situation that God is using to do all of this is a very difficult one, but I know that He is with us every step of the way as evident with the miracles happening before my very eyes. Please pray for my family...especially for my dad.

Dear God, I thank You for all the miraculous changes that are happening in my family. I thank You for the time You have given us to spend together. I pray that You would continue to work in our lives and bring us closer together. I pray that You would give my dad the strength and inner-peace he needs to fight this battle he is suffering from, and I pray that You would heal him before our very eyes according to Your Holy Will. Thank you, Lord.

Random Cuteness

2008-01-29T05:31:00.000-08:00

On Sunday evening, Caleb was a COMPLETE HAM. Below, you will find a picture and a couple of videos from that night just to further explain what I mean! Hope you enjoy!

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Here's the ham...

Here's the ham in action! This is a new face he just started using when he's trying to get our attention and make us laugh! Of course, the more we laugh, the more he does it! I like to call it his "cutesy face"! (I apologize for the video being so dark!)

This is Caleb informing us that dinner's ready after hearing the timer go off!

So now it's MY turn!

2008-01-22T05:40:00.000-08:00

7 Random Facts About Me:

1. I can't stand the feeling of raw, unfinished wood! It give me the willies! I guess it's a good thing my husband is the carpenter and not myself!

2. I can't stand using a file on my fingernails, for that also gives me the willies!

3. When I was a little girl, I would sit in time-out with my little brother to keep him company because I felt bad for him when he would get punished.

4. I can shop (for myself) in the little girls' section when I'm not pregnant! Hey, the clothes are cheaper in that section and I don't even have to hem the pants!

5. Speaking of hemming, I can't sew to save my life! Luckily, David steps up to the plate if I should need something hemmed! Isn't he the greatest?!

6. At night, I sleep on my side with my wrists bent in half tucked under my chin. Don't ask me how this is comfortable, but it totally is!

7. And last but not least, I HATE to cook, but LOVE to bake! Anything I cook, turns out to be a flop! My poor husband probably has the worst housewife ever created! At least he can always look forward to dessert after whatever he's forced to eat for dinner!

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Here are the rules for the game:
*Link to the person that tagged you
*Post the rules on your blog.
*Share 7 random and/or weird facts about yourself on your blog.
*Tag 7 random people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs.
*Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blogs.
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Now it's your turn! I'm tagging: Amber, Ilene, Josh, Justin, Leah, Micah, and Mom!

Caleb's 1st Sled-ride!

2008-01-17T04:59:00.000-08:00

Since yesterday was such a gorgeous winter day, I decided to take Caleb out for his first sled-ride and, boy, did he enjoy it! I think I had just as much fun watching him as he had riding around! At first, he didn't really know what to think of it and giggled once in awhile, but as he became accustomed to this new activity, he reclined back and enjoyed the ride! I can't wait to take him back out on his sled again!

1st picture: note the expression of uncertainty!

Last picture: note the smile on his face!

The Things You Learn During a Power Outage...

2008-01-10T10:50:00.001-08:00

Yesterday, I learned how badly I take advantage of having electricity. Even after knowing the power was out, I would habitually walk into a room and flick on the light switch...I mean, come on! Caleb learned (at least I hope so) that he can survive an entire day without watching his favorite Elmo's World video. Then again, he got his Sesame Street fix last night at Grandma and Grandpa's house after watching the same video a half a dozen times! OK, so maybe it was only 3 or 4 times but who's counting anyway!

Excited:

2008-01-09T05:20:00.000-08:00

-To see how God will work in our lives this new year

-For the arrival of our new baby in just 3 months

-To watch as Caleb grows and learns new things each day

-To witness how happy my husband is upon coming home from work due to the amazing job he now has

-To see the changes happening in our church and what will become of them

-To have had a nice brisk walk with Caleb on a 60-degree day in January yesterday

-To know that spring is right around the corner

-To know that no matter what happens, it was all part of God's plan for us

Christmas 2007

2007-12-26T13:22:00.000-08:00

WARNING: PHOTO FRENZY!!!

Opening his stocking on Christmas morning.

Posing with his favorite singing penguin from Mammy (Grandma Lashomb).

Trying out his new vacuum from Mammy.

Playing with his new toy from Grandma and Grandpa.

Isn't he a little cutie!?

Spending time with Grandma on Christmas day.

My favorite picture of all!

Peeking out amongst all the boxes.

Mama's baby!

Eating popcorn with Grandpa while watching The Santa Clause 3.

My little ham!

Our little drummer boy!

Our Christmas 2007 family photo!

Our baby...

2007-12-18T05:45:00.000-08:00

...is growing up!!! *sigh*

Caleb's Newest Stage

2007-12-14T06:23:00.000-08:00

Lately, Caleb has been extremely clingy and constantly wanting me to pick him up and hold him. For the most part, I don't mind this except for when I'm trying to get things done and he's under my feet. Once the new baby arrives in April, I won't be able to hold Caleb as much, which is why I'm slowly trying to break him of this now. Well, I happened to catch one of these episodes in a series of pictures. Hope you enjoy!:-)

Come on, Mom! I know you'll pick me up!

You are going to pick me up, right?

Pleeeeease pick me up!!!

20 Weeks and Counting! (with picture!)

2007-11-27T13:32:00.001-08:00

I can't believe how fast this second pregnancy is flying by! I'm 20 weeks along today and it hardly seems possible! This is my most favorite part of being pregnant because now David can share in my positive pregnancy experiences rather than holding my hair as I'm vomiting over the toilet or bringing me in a cold wet washcloth for my forehead. (Yes, he's definitely a sweetheart!). For the past couple of weeks I've been feeling the baby move all over and just this past Saturday, David was even able to feel the movements as well. I have a feeling this new baby will be just as active as Caleb by how often I'm feeling movement. Between the two of them, I think I'll definitely have my hands full!

I'm feeling great at this point and diaper changes are even bearable now, which is a huge plus! The only thing is that I'm having terrible pregnancy cravings...chocolate and gummy peach rings! (No, not at the same time!) I love being able to eat just about anything, whereas in the beginning nothing seemed to settle very well in my tummy! Things are going really well and I'm very thankful and excited as we rapidly approach our newest little one's arrival!

Picture taken on 12/9/07- 21w5d

Parenting

2007-11-19T05:10:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend, I learned one of the most difficult aspects of parenting is trying to comfort your baby who has been hit with multiple whammies all at once. My poor little Caleb started teething again on Thursday night, came down with a cold Friday afternoon and received his one-year-old shots Friday evening. Needless to say, throughout Friday night, his fever spiked to 104 and he just moaned the whole night. I felt so bad for him for all I could do was pump him with Tylenol, try to keep him as cool as possible without chilling him, and rock him while singing our special songs throughout the night. Thankfully, he was able to sleep through the night on Saturday and catch up on some well-needed rest. Once again though, he was up four times last night with his bad head-cold. I'm very thankful that with each day he is gradually improving, so we're hoping by Thanksgiving he'll be up to par! I'd have to say though, I truly have enjoyed all the cuddling time we've had lately! It reminds me that even though he's getting older, more independent, and has been completely weaned, he still looks to me for comfort...very cool!:-)

Awesome Husband!

2007-11-04T19:04:00.000-08:00

You know you have an awesome husband when he assists you in straightening your hair on a Sunday morning before going to church.

Yes indeed, I have an awesome husband!:-)

Five Years...

2007-11-01T13:01:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how time changes circumstances from one year to the next. It was five years ago today that, David (who's he?), called me and asked me out on our first date. We scheduled it for the following evening at 6:00PM, and we decided to go to Pizza Hut. Just thinking back to our first date makes me all "bubbly" inside! He was a sweetheart right from the start...opened doors for me, offered me his coat if I looked chilly, would rather hear about me and my life than talk about his own, etc. We definitely hit it off that night! I remember after dinner when he dropped me back off at home, I was all giddy and couldn't stop talking about him. I definitely was a "teenager in love"! That very night though, as a senior in high school, I never imagined just five years later we'd be where we are now...happily married for over two years; have an adorable one-year-old boy and anxiously awaiting the arrival of another baby; a cute, little house of our own... I could go on and on with all the blessings the Lord has given us, but I don't want to sound as if I'm boasting!

I'm so very thankful for the direction the Lord has taken me in my life. If it wasn't for that first date with David, I probably wouldn't know the Lord today. I became saved after attending Grace Covenant Church with David on December 31, 2002 at a New Year's Eve Dinner. Since then, I have given myself to the Lord to be used for his purpose and his alone. Even though I attended college and earned my degree as a Physical Therapist Assistant, He had an even greater plan for me and my life...He blessed me with children to love and care for, and for that I'm forever thankful!

You never know where the Lord will take you from year to year, but by being obedient and willing to let Him lead you according to His will, He will bless you abundantly in everything you do!

Thank you, Lord, for the husband You have chosen for me.
Thank you for the children You have blessed me with.
I'm forever thankful for Your love and sacrifice You have made on my behalf.
Thank you for cleansing me of my sins and changing me into the woman I am today.
I love You, Lord, and thank you for each day You have blessed me with.
I look forward to each new day You place before us, and I am excited to see what You'll do in our lives.
Lord, thank you for everything.

Happy 1st Birthday, My Little Peanut!!!

2007-10-26T10:17:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been one year,
since God blessed us and sent you here.
You filled that lonely void in our life,
after Daddy and I became man and wife.

You bring so much joy to all of our days,
with your cute, adorable, precious ways.
With each kiss you give and each hug so tight,
You turn a gloomy day into something bright.

As each year goes by we want you to know,
Our love for you continues to grow.
From your baby days through your toddler years,
We'll continue to be there through your scraped knees and tears.

We couldn't imagine one day without you,
And that's exactly how God knew,
That you were the perfect son for us,
And in knowing that, we truly are blessed!

Written especially for you by me,
Your biggest fan, yours truly,
-Mommy

Your mean so much to us, Caleb Michael! We thank God for you each day and can't wait to watch as you grow throughout the years! We love you so much! Happy 1st Birthday, My Little Peanut!

2007-10-22T19:02:00.000-07:00

Praise You in This Storm- Casting Crowns
words by Mark Hall/music by Mark Hall and Bernie Herms

I was sure by now, God, that You would have reached down
and wiped our tears away,
stepped in and saved the day.
But once again, I say amen
and it's still raining
as the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain,
"I'm with you"
and as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise
the God who gives and takes away.

Chorus:
And I'll praise you in this storm
and I will lift my hands
for You are who You are
no matter where I am
and every tear I've cried
You hold in your hand
You never left my side
and though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm

I remember when I stumbled in the wind
You heard my cry to You
and raised me up again
my strength is almost gone how can I carry on
if I can't find You
and as the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
and as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise
the God who gives and takes away

Chorus

I lift my eyes onto the hills
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth
I lift my eyes onto the hills
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth

Chorus

New Post!

2007-10-16T06:34:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay between posts, but I'm really bad at this whole blogging thing! Anyway, here is some news from LAST week!

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Over the past week, we've had many sleepless nights here at the Flack House...yes, Caleb cut his first tooth AND THEN his second within days of each other! I felt so bad for him...he was just downright miserable for many days! Luckily, now that the teeth have poked through, he has slept through the night for the past two nights! YAY!:-)

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My first prenatal appointment last Friday, October 12th, went great! With the cramping and spotting that occurred throughout last week, I was really nervous and concerned for the baby. It turns out everything is just fine! Praise God! My doctor gave me an estimated due date of April 15th (yes, Tax Day!). The baby's heart rate was in the 150's at my appointment (maybe a girl this time???). Either way, we're very excited and anxiously awaiting our baby's arrival! As with my last pregnancy, David and I have decided that we want the sex of the baby to be a surprise until the delivery. (We think it's more fun this way!)

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Below you'll find miscellaneous pictures taken over the past several weeks. Hope you enjoy!:-)

Enjoying the last days of summer on the porch swing!

My handsome little man!

Daddy and Caleb snuggling around the campfire at Grandma and Grandpa's house!

Mama's baby!

My cutie-patootie!

Apple-picking!

2007-10-06T20:22:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, while David was at work, I decided to take Caleb apple-picking with my mom, my sister, and her two little girls. This was Caleb's first time apple-picking and he loved it! He was so funny! Every time I picked an apple off of the tree, he laughed hysterically! He thought it was the greatest thing! We're looking forward to going again soon!:-)

Exciting News!!!

2007-09-24T15:49:00.000-07:00

For those of you who haven't already heard, David and I are proud to announce that Baby Flack #2 is on the way and due to arrive in April! We're so thankful and very excited about the new addition to our little family and anxiously awaiting the baby's arrival!

As for Caleb...he's doing great as you can probably tell from past posts! He loves babies and will be an awesome big brother! In fact, he "kisses" little babies that are on cereal boxes! It's so cute!

That's the latest here at the Flack House!

P.S.
Does anyone have any helpful hints on changing poopy diapers during pregnancy??? It's almost impossible at this point!

Secret Code

2007-09-19T17:08:00.000-07:00

After dinner this evening, while David was playing with Caleb, I hopped on the computer for a little bit. All of a sudden, Caleb came crawling over to the computer chair, pulled himself up to a standing position, and began fussing, wanting me to pick him up. So I picked him up and he immediately bit my shoulder with his, yes, toothless gums, then looked up into my eyes. I figured either his gums were bothering since he's in the process of teething, I think or he wanted to nurse. He did this three times and the last time he just stared at me with puppy-dog eyes as if saying, "Mom, don't you know our secret code???" At that point, I knew that he wanted to nurse! Meanwhile, David is laughing hysterically as this was something that Caleb had never done before. It was pretty comical!

Marching Baby!

2007-09-10T16:55:00.001-07:00

Tonight while David and I were relaxing in the living room after dinner, we witnessed Caleb stand up at the coffee table and march sideways around it while holding on! He wasn't just cruising around it like babies do, he was marching--knees high and everything! It was the funniest thing! Just thought I'd share another cute Caleb moment with you all!

The Determination of a Child

2007-08-24T19:25:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how determined children can be when they want something. Caleb is VERY determined...he's sneaky about it too! He'll be sitting in the middle of the kitchen floor, eye the drawer that he just LOVES to play in, start crawling towards it, stop to make sure you're watching him, do something cute to REALLY catch your attention, and then dart toward that drawer! He KNOWS he's not supposed to be in the drawer, which is why he looks right at you as he opens it, but he goes for it anyway! When he has his mind set on something, he goes after it until he succeeds! If only we had that same focus when it comes to pleasing the Lord and doing what he commands us to do in our daily lives. Instead, we tend to get side-tracked and busy with our everyday routine and put God on the back-burner for the time being. (I'm speaking for myself as well, just so you know.) It's easy to lose sight of what we should be doing. The next time I find myself losing focus, I'll keep this picture of my son in the back of my mind and strive for this same determination!

Autumn...

2007-08-22T08:30:00.001-07:00

It's amazing how, over the past week especially, the summer is slowly fading as autumn rapidly approaches. The early morning air is cool and crisp as I wave goodbye to my husband as he pulls out of the driveway and heads to work. The house is even chilly from the night air that escapes in through our open windows. My mood changes as well with the season. The commotion of summer and all the festivities that accompany it are long lost memories at this point and there is a settling in my heart as the year comes to an end and the new one approaches. (Autumn IS the last season of the year!) In anticipation, I wonder what the new year will bring and how God will work in each of our lives. It's exciting to see what God has in store for us. His love is so great that you KNOW it will be another awesome year to look forward to!

Things Aren't Always What They Seem

2007-08-16T11:29:00.001-07:00

I received this as an e-mail and wanted to share it with all of you! It's definitely something to keep in mind when things aren't going as you think they should! There's truly a reason for it!

Two traveling angels stopped to spend the night in the home of a wealthy family. The family was rude and refused to let the angels stay in the mansion's guest room. Instead the angels were given a small space in the cold basement. As they made their bed on the hard floor, the older angel saw a hole in the wall and repaired it. When the younger angel asked why, the older angel replied, 'Things aren't always what they seem.'

The next night the pair came to rest at the house of a very poor, but very hospitable farmer and his wife. After sharing what little food they had the couple let the angels sleep in their bed where they could have a good night's rest. When the sun came up the next morning the angels found the farmer and his wife in tears. Their only cow, whose milk had been their sole income, lay dead in the field. The younger angel was infuriated and asked the older angel how could you have let this happen? The first man had everything, yet you helped him, she accused. The second family had little but was willing to share everything, and you let the cow die.

'Things aren't always what they seem,' the older angel replied. 'When we stayed in the basement of the mansion, I noticed there was gold stored in that hole in the wall.. Since the owner was so obsessed with greed and unwilling to share his good fortune, I sealed the wall so he wouldn't find it. Then last night as we slept in the farmers bed, the angel of death came for his wife. I gave him the cow instead. Things aren't always what they seem.'

I really liked this story a lot...very powerful message! It's definitely something to keep in mind when things don't go our way. We just have to have faith that God is on our side and the outcome was actually to our advantage even if it may not seem like it at the time.

Butt-spinning!

2007-08-14T17:44:00.000-07:00

Caleb recently began doing this new activity for entertainment...he sits on his butt and uses his feet to propel himself in a circle while laughing hysterically! It looks like he's riding on an invisible Sit-n-Spin! You can tell when he overdoes the spinning as he tries to crawl away! It's the funniest thing to watch!!! Well, last night before beginning his typical bedtime routine (cereal, bath...), he added a little more excitement to this new game. While butt-spinning, he picked up his wooden spoon we let him play with and held it in both hands as if he was holding up a flag. Then, he started whacking the floor every few spins as if he was playing Daddy's drums! It was so funny! It's amazing how creative kids can be, isn't it?!

Better Late Than Never, Right?

2007-08-13T17:42:00.000-07:00

This is definitely the case for me and this whole "blogger thing"! I mean, people have been doing it for years, right? Well, since we were recently blessed with, basically, a new computer, I now have the opportunity to have an online journal of my own! I have a place to share with you all of my daily thoughts and the adorable things my 9 1/2 month old son, Caleb, comes up with each day! Visit often to hear the latest!